The need for Healthy Athletes is great. Despite a mistaken belief that people with intellectual disabilities receive the same or better health care than others, they typically receive sub-standard care, or virtually no health care at all. People with intellectual disabilities have poorer health, more specialized health care needs, and greater difficulty accessing health care services and doctors compared to the general population.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), despite the severe need and higher health risk, people with intellectual disabilities are denied health services, community interventions, and there is a lack of targeted interventions and programs for the population. Healthcare professionals who volunteer with Special Olympics have found that Special Olympics athletes are at increased risk of secondary health issues.
Healthy Athlete Disciplines
The mission of Special Olympics – Lions Clubs International Opening Eyes® is to improve the quality of life for the millions of individuals diagnosed with intellectual disabilities by optimizing their vision, eye health and visual skills through quality eye care.
Strong Minds
Strong Minds aims to teach athletes mental exercises and provide resources to increase relaxation and stress management skills.
Special Smiles
Providing solutions to chronic dental problems, or providing an athlete with a mouth guard, can enhance the athlete’s performance.
Healthy Hearing
The Healthy Hearing program serves as a global audiological screening, care, and referral program for our athletes.
Fit Feet
Many Special Olympics athletes suffer from foot and ankle pain, or deformities that impair their performance. Athletes are not always fitted with the best shoes and socks for their particular sport.
FUNFitness
FUNfitness is the comprehensive physical therapy component of the Special Olympics Healthy Athletes® initiative.
MedFest
Special Olympics MedFest is a free health screening that facilitates the acquisition of the standard sports physical is required under the General Rules of Special Olympics, Inc.
Health Promotion
Health Promotion is a free screening that offers health information and advice in the areas of nutrition, sun safety, bone density, tobacco cessation, and physical fitness.
Questions?